Important Lawn Maintenance Projects for the Fall

These Easy Projects Take Only 15 Minutes

Here are some easy things you can do that will make a big difference come spring.

Feed Your Lawn

The difference between a "so-so" lawn and a truly beautiful lawn both now and next spring is two fall feedings. Feeding in early September and again 6-8 weeks later, helps your lawn begin rebuilding grass roots that were damaged during the hot, dry summer. Since this is also a great time to kill lawn weeds, you can do two jobs at once by applying a weed and feed, such as Scotts® Turf Builder® WinterGuard® Fall Weed & Feed.

Spruce Up Your Lawn by Reseeding

When kids play on a lawn that's still hurting from summer heat and drought, it can get damaged. Spruce it up by reseeding with a quality Scotts® grass seed mix and Scotts® Turf Builder® Starter® Food for New Grass. After that, just keep the seed and young grass watered - a light misting once or twice a day until the seedlings have reached a mowing height.

Fall Feeding Number 2

Your second fall feeding should be about 6-8 weeks after your first fall feeding. Scotts® Turf Builder® WinterGuard® Fall Lawn Food gives your lawn the nutrients it needs to store up energy for a healthy spring push and helps to break down those mulched leaves.

Mow at Your Lawn Shorter

In late fall, drop your mower down and cut your lawn 1-2 inches shorter than you have the rest of the growing season. Continue to mow at 2 to 3 inches until your grass stops growing in early winter. You should cut your lawn slightly lower for the last cut.

Clean Up your Tools for a Fresh Start Next Spring

They've served you well all season, but now it's time to put the tools away. You'll keep them from rusting if you clean them up before you hang them up. Also, if you're done mowing for the year, do your winter mower maintenance for storage.

Stow your Lawn Furniture

It's probably too cold now to sip lemonade on the patio, so put your cushions away and haul the grill and furniture into storage until next year.

Check the Gutters

While you're hanging holiday lights, check the gutters. Thanksgiving weekend is when many people are out on ladders hanging lights for the holiday season. If you're up on one, take the time to clean out your gutters. You don't want clogged gutters when winter storms roll in.

Help Is Just a Click or a Phone Call Away

There's nothing like personal attention from a trusted expert to quickly answer any of your lawn and garden questions. Visit our Help Center to send us a note or speak with an expert by calling 1-888-270-3714.

Certain activities provided via the website may be covered by U.S. Patent No. 5,930,474

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